Make efforts to ensure Ajaokuta Steel becomes operational, Reps tell FG

The House of Representatives Committee on Steel has called for concerted efforts by relevant authorities towards ensuring that the Ajaokuta Steel Mill in Kogi state becomes fully operational.

The chairman of the Committee, Abdullahi Halims, made the call during an oversight visit with other members of the committee to the Ministry of Mines and Steel development in Abuja.

Halims said when operational the facility would significantly contribute to the growth of the country.

“To be succinct and precise, the purpose of this oversight/inspection is to see how the workings of the Ministry are fairing, gather information, identify challenges, and build synergy and to look for ways to resolve issues that need government input through legislative actions.

“Nigeria today faces enormous challenges in human, social and economic development. The increasing level of violence and insecurity and the deepening poverty and inequalities are demoralizing, but also capable of inspiring action amongst political leaders,” he said.

The Minister, Senator Gbemisola Saraki, regretted that “so far, no steel has been developed.”

She said the Ministry was committed to working with relevant authorities to ensure that it delivers on its mandate.”